Our Library

As told by Boswell of his meeting Dr Johnson

Mr. Davies mentioned my name, and respectfully introduced me to him. I was much agitated, and recollecting his prejudice against the Scotch, of which I had heard so much, I said to Davies, “Don’t tell him where I come from.” “From Scotland,” cried Davies roguishly. “Mr. Johnson,” said I, “I do indeed come from Scotland, but I cannot help it.” I am willing to flatter myself that I meant this as a light pleasantry to soothe and conciliate him, and not as a humiliating abasement at the expense of my country. But however that might be, this speech was somewhat unlucky, for with that quickness of wit for which he was so remarkable he retorted, “That, sir, I find is what a great many of your countrymen cannot help.”

Thus began one of the strangest friendships, out of which developed the most delightful biography ever written. Boswell’s taste for literary adventures and Johnson’s literary vagrancy met in a companionship that flourished in the bohemian inns and coffeehouses of old London.

We wanted to pay homage to the long association of coffee and literature. That’s why we have a library in Fixx Coffeehouse where readers can sit a while and browse. If you find a book you enjoy but don’t have time to finish it, feel free to take it home. Next time you visit Fixx you can bring another book and leave it on the shelves. If you don’t have a book to swop, we’d appreciate it if you could make a donation (in the box on the wall) to the Irish Cancer Society.